The Case Against Alcohol: A Functional Medicine Perspective

Alcohol consumption is a common part of social gatherings, celebrations, and even daily routines for many. However, as a Traditional Naturopath and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Practitioner and someone who upholds the Seventh-day Adventist commitment to holistic health, I believe it's essential to examine the impact of alcohol on our bodies, minds, and spirits. This article will explore the reasons why avoiding alcohol is beneficial, from a biblical, scientific, and functional medicine standpoint, and offer guidance on how to support your body if you choose to abstain.

Biblical Perspective: A Call to Holiness

As Seventh-day Adventists, we are called to live lives that honor God, including taking care of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. The Bible contains several warnings about the dangers of alcohol. Proverbs 20:1 (NIV) says, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” Furthermore, in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, we are reminded that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and that we are to glorify God with our bodies.

While the Bible doesn’t explicitly forbid alcohol, the only permissible use is for the medicinal purposes, Proverbs 31:6 (CEV) Beer and wine are only for the dying or for those who have lost all hope. The negative impacts of alcohol are well-documented, and avoiding it aligns with a lifestyle of holiness and respect for the body God has given us.

Scientific Evidence Against Alcohol Consumption

From a functional medicine perspective, the effects of alcohol on health are significant and concerning. Scientific research over the decades has revealed significant negative health impacts of alcohol, even at moderate consumption levels. Here’s a deeper look into the scientific evidence against alcohol consumption and its effects on various aspects of health.

Liver Health: The Primary Organ Affected by Alcohol

The liver is the body's main detoxifying organ, responsible for metabolizing substances, including alcohol. When you consume alcohol, the liver works to break it down into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound, which is then further metabolized into less harmful substances that the body can eliminate. Chronic alcohol consumption overwhelms the liver's capacity to process alcohol, leading to a variety of liver-related health issues:

• Fatty Liver Disease: Also known as hepatic steatosis, this condition involves the accumulation of fat in liver cells. Even light to moderate alcohol intake can lead to this condition if consumed regularly over time. Fatty liver is reversible with abstinence but can progress to more severe liver diseases if alcohol consumption continues.

• Alcoholic Hepatitis: This inflammatory condition occurs due to prolonged alcohol exposure, leading to liver cell injury and inflammation. Symptoms include jaundice, abdominal pain, and fever. Severe cases can be life-threatening and often require medical intervention.

• Cirrhosis: This is the final stage of chronic liver disease and is characterized by the irreversible scarring of liver tissue. Cirrhosis greatly increases the risk of liver failure and liver cancer. Studies have shown that heavy drinking over many years can lead to cirrhosis, but even moderate drinking has been associated with an increased risk.

A comprehensive review published in the Journal of Hepatology highlighted that alcohol-related liver disease accounts for more than half of liver disease deaths in the United States, indicating the significant burden alcohol places on liver health (Seitz et al., 2018).

Brain Health: Long-Term Impacts on Cognitive Function

Alcohol affects the brain in multiple ways, both in the short term (intoxication) and long term (neurodegeneration). Here’s how alcohol impacts brain health:

• Neurotoxicity: Alcohol is a neurotoxin, meaning it damages brain cells. Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to a reduction in brain volume, particularly in the frontal lobe, which is responsible for executive functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and impulse control. Research published in the BMJ found that even moderate drinking was associated with an increased risk of brain volume reduction and cognitive decline (Topiwala et al., 2017).

• Memory and Learning: Alcohol particularly affects the hippocampus, the brain region critical for memory and learning. Studies have shown that heavy drinking can lead to shrinkage of the hippocampus, contributing to memory impairments and an increased risk of developing conditions like Alzheimer's disease (Sullivan et al., 2010).

• Mental Health: Alcohol consumption has been linked to various mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety. The relationship is bidirectional; alcohol can exacerbate mental health issues, and people with mental health issues are more likely to consume alcohol. A meta-analysis published in Addiction indicated that alcohol use disorder (AUD) is associated with an increased risk of major depression and anxiety disorders (Boden & Fergusson, 2011).

Increased Cancer Risk: Alcohol as a Carcinogen

Alcohol has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), meaning it is known to cause cancer in humans. Here’s how alcohol contributes to cancer development:

• Mechanisms of Carcinogenesis: Alcohol metabolism produces acetaldehyde, a toxic substance that can damage DNA and proteins. Acetaldehyde can interfere with the repair of damaged DNA, increasing the likelihood of mutations that can lead to cancer. Additionally, alcohol can increase levels of estrogen and other hormones associated with breast cancer.

• Types of Cancer: Alcohol consumption has been linked to several types of cancer, including but not limited to:

  • Breast Cancer: Even low levels of alcohol intake (as little as one drink per day) can increase the risk of breast cancer in women. A pooled analysis of data from multiple studies found a clear dose-response relationship between alcohol intake and breast cancer risk (Chen et al., 2011).

  • Liver Cancer: Chronic alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma, the most common type of liver cancer. The link between alcohol and liver cancer is largely due to alcohol-induced cirrhosis.

  • Colorectal Cancer: Alcohol consumption has been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. A meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that individuals who consumed more than 50 grams of alcohol per day (approximately four drinks) had a significantly increased risk of colorectal cancer (Cho et al., 2004).

Impact on Gut Health: The Microbiome and Beyond

The gut microbiome plays a critical role in overall health, influencing digestion, immune function, and even mental health. Alcohol disrupts the balance of the gut microbiome, leading to dysbiosis—a condition characterized by an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the gut.

• Leaky Gut Syndrome: Alcohol can damage the intestinal lining, leading to increased intestinal permeability or "leaky gut." This condition allows toxins and bacteria to pass from the gut into the bloodstream, triggering systemic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a key driver of many chronic diseases, including autoimmune disorders and metabolic syndrome (Wang et al., 2010).

• Digestive Issues: Alcohol can increase gastric acid secretion and delay gastric emptying, leading to conditions like acid reflux, gastritis, and peptic ulcers. Chronic alcohol use can also impair nutrient absorption, contributing to deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals.

Genetic Predispositions: Understanding Individual Risks

Not everyone responds to alcohol in the same way, and genetics play a significant role in determining how alcohol affects an individual. Genetic variations can influence how efficiently the body metabolizes alcohol, which can affect a person's risk of developing alcohol-related health problems.

• ADH1B and ALDH2 Genes: These genes encode enzymes involved in alcohol metabolism. Variants of these genes can lead to slower metabolism of acetaldehyde, resulting in a buildup of this toxic substance. Individuals with certain genetic variants are more likely to experience adverse effects from alcohol, including an increased risk of liver disease and cancer. Research published in Human Genetics discusses how genetic testing can help identify individuals at higher risk of alcohol-related health issues, allowing for more personalized health recommendations (Hurley & Edenberg, 2012) .

Nutrients and Botanicals to Support Sobriety: A Scientific Approach

Achieving and maintaining sobriety from alcohol can be a challenging journey that involves not only breaking the cycle of dependence but also healing the body from the effects of chronic alcohol use. Nutrients and botanicals can play a crucial role in supporting this process by helping to repair damage, alleviate withdrawal symptoms, and promote overall health. Here’s a detailed look into the scientific evidence behind some of the most effective nutrients and botanicals for supporting sobriety.

B Vitamins: Vital for Brain and Nervous System Health

B vitamins, particularly thiamine (B1), folate (B9), and vitamin B12, are critical for brain health and neurological function. Chronic alcohol consumption often leads to deficiencies in these vitamins due to poor dietary intake, impaired absorption, and increased excretion.

• Thiamine (Vitamin B1): Alcohol interferes with the absorption of thiamine and its conversion to its active form. Thiamine deficiency can lead to Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a serious neurological condition characterized by confusion, memory loss, and motor dysfunction. Supplementing with thiamine can help prevent or reduce the severity of this syndrome in recovering alcoholics (Day et al., 2013). Regular intake of thiamine is also associated with improved energy metabolism and cognitive function, which are often impaired in those recovering from alcohol dependence.

• Folate (Vitamin B9) and Vitamin B12: These vitamins are essential for DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, processes that are often disrupted in alcoholics due to poor diet and malabsorption. Folate deficiency is particularly common in individuals with alcohol use disorder and is linked to cognitive impairment and mood disorders. Supplementation with folate and B12 has been shown to improve mood and cognitive function in recovering alcoholics (Miller, 2008).

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Anti-inflammatory and Neuroprotective

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are essential fats that have powerful anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. They are crucial for brain health, reducing inflammation, and supporting cell membrane integrity.

• Inflammation Reduction: Chronic alcohol consumption leads to systemic inflammation, which can damage various organs, including the brain. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and promoting the resolution of inflammation (Calder, 2013). This anti-inflammatory effect can be particularly beneficial in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline associated with chronic alcohol use.

• Neuroprotection: Omega-3s support brain health by enhancing neuronal membrane fluidity, which is crucial for proper neurotransmitter function and synaptic plasticity. Studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation can improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of depression in recovering alcoholics, potentially by modulating neurotransmitter pathways and reducing oxidative stress (Sontrop & Campbell, 2006).

Magnesium: Restoring Cellular Function and Reducing Anxiety

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including those related to energy production, DNA synthesis, and nerve transmission. Chronic alcohol use is known to deplete magnesium levels, which can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle cramps, anxiety, and insomnia.

• Anxiety Reduction: Magnesium plays a critical role in modulating the body's stress response and has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system. Studies have demonstrated that magnesium supplementation can reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality in individuals with alcohol use disorder, potentially by modulating the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis and neurotransmitter activity (Boyle et al., 2017).

• Cellular Function: Magnesium is also crucial for maintaining cellular function and energy production. By supporting ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production and stabilizing cellular membranes, magnesium can help restore energy levels and reduce fatigue in individuals recovering from alcohol dependence.

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Antioxidant and Glutathione Support

N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) is a precursor to glutathione, the body’s most potent antioxidant. NAC is known for its ability to replenish intracellular levels of glutathione, thereby protecting cells from oxidative stress and reducing inflammation.

• Antioxidant Protection: Chronic alcohol consumption increases oxidative stress, leading to cell damage and contributing to liver disease, brain damage, and other alcohol-related health issues. NAC has been shown to reduce oxidative stress by boosting glutathione levels, thereby protecting cells from damage. In the context of alcohol recovery, NAC supplementation can help mitigate the oxidative damage caused by long-term alcohol use (Amini et al., 2018).

• Liver Support: NAC is also used as a treatment for acetaminophen poisoning, which can cause acute liver failure. This application underscores its potential to protect liver cells from damage. In recovering alcoholics, NAC can support liver health by promoting detoxification and reducing liver inflammation (Samuni et al., 2013).

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum): Liver Detoxification and Protection

Milk thistle is a botanical known for its liver-protective properties, largely due to its active compound, silymarin. Silymarin has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects, making it beneficial for liver health.

• Liver Detoxification: Silymarin helps to enhance liver detoxification pathways by increasing the levels of glutathione and superoxide dismutase, two critical antioxidants in liver detoxification. This enhancement helps to protect liver cells from oxidative damage caused by alcohol metabolism (Abenavoli et al., 2018).

• Liver Regeneration: Research has shown that milk thistle can promote the regeneration of liver tissue and improve liver function in individuals with liver diseases, including those related to alcohol consumption. A systematic review concluded that milk thistle supplementation could improve liver enzyme levels and reduce the symptoms of liver disease in patients with alcoholic liver disease (Loguercio & Festi, 2011).

Kudzu (Pueraria lobata): Reducing Alcohol Cravings

Kudzu is an herb traditionally used in Chinese medicine that has gained attention for its potential to reduce alcohol cravings and consumption.

• Craving Reduction: The active compounds in kudzu, such as puerarin, have been shown to affect neurotransmitter systems in the brain, particularly those involving dopamine and serotonin. Studies suggest that kudzu can reduce alcohol intake and delay the onset of intoxication by altering the way alcohol is metabolized and its effects on the brain (Keung & Vallee, 1998).

• Supporting Abstinence: A small clinical trial found that individuals who took kudzu extract before drinking consumed less alcohol and showed lower levels of alcohol-related impairment than those who took a placebo. This suggests that kudzu may be a helpful botanical in supporting sobriety by reducing the desire to drink (Lukas et al., 2005).

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): Stress Reduction and Adrenal Support

Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb known for its ability to reduce stress and support adrenal function, which can be particularly beneficial during alcohol withdrawal and recovery.

• Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Ashwagandha has been shown to reduce cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha can help reduce anxiety and improve mood, which are common challenges faced by individuals in recovery from alcohol dependence (Chandrasekhar et al., 2012).

• Adrenal Support: Chronic alcohol use can lead to adrenal fatigue, characterized by low energy, poor stress tolerance, and mood swings. Ashwagandha supports adrenal health by promoting balance in the body's stress response system, thereby helping to restore energy levels and improve resilience to stress (Singh et al., 2011).

Where to buy:

Gethealthy.store- US

Fullscript- US

Amrita Nutrition Uk- International code: KXCTGG

Amrita Nutrition Global- International code: 70FB2AB56158

Conclusion: Nourishing Your Path to Sobriety

Sobriety is not just about abstaining from alcohol; it’s about healing your body, mind, and spirit. Through the power of scientifically-backed nutrients and botanicals like B vitamins, omega-3s, magnesium, NAC, and herbs like milk thistle and kudzu, you can support your body's natural recovery processes. These nutrients help replenish what alcohol may have depleted, reduce cravings, protect vital organs, and restore balance to your life.

As a Traditional Naturopath and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® Practitioner, I encourage you to take the first step in supporting your health and wellbeing. For those interested in understanding their personal risk factors for alcohol sensitivity or dependency, consider genetic testing through DNAlife. Genetic insights can empower you to make informed decisions about your health and create a personalized plan to support your sobriety journey.

Call to Action:

Nutrients and botanicals offer a powerful, scientifically-backed approach to supporting sobriety and recovery from alcohol dependence. By addressing nutritional deficiencies, reducing inflammation, supporting liver function, and helping to manage stress and cravings, these natural therapies can play a crucial role in the recovery process.

For individuals seeking to support their sobriety journey with targeted nutritional and botanical interventions, contact us so we can provide personalized guidance. Additionally, genetic testing through services like DNAlife can offer insights into individual predispositions and help tailor a more effective recovery plan.

Citation:

Liver Health and Alcohol:

- Mayo Clinic. "Alcohol use: Weighing risks and benefits." Accessed August 12, 2024. [Mayo Clinic].

- Seitz, H. K., Bataller, R., Cortez-Pinto, H., Gao, B., Gual, A., Lackner, C., ... & Morgan, T. R. (2018). "Alcoholic liver disease." Journal of Hepatology, 69(4), 1104-1109. [Journal of Hepatology].

Brain Health and Alcohol:

- Harper, C. G., & Matsumoto, I. (2005). "Ethanol and brain damage." Current Opinion in Pharmacology, 5(1), 73-78. doi:10.1016/j.coph.2004.06.009 [Current Opinion in Pharmacology].

- Topiwala, A., Allan, C. L., Valkanova, V., Zsoldos, E., Filippini, N., Sexton, C., ... & Ebmeier, K. P. (2017). "Moderate alcohol consumption as risk factor for adverse brain outcomes and cognitive decline: longitudinal cohort study." BMJ, 357, j2353. [BMJ].

- Alcohol and Mental Health - Addiction:

- Boden, J. M., & Fergusson, D. M. (2011). "Alcohol and depression." Addiction, 106(5), 906-914. [Addiction].

Cancer Risk and Alcohol:

- World Health Organization. "Alcohol and Cancer." Accessed August 12, 2024. [WHO].

- American Cancer Society. "Alcohol Use and Cancer." Accessed August 12, 2024. [American Cancer Society].

- Chen, W. Y., Rosner, B., Hankinson, S. E., Colditz, G. A., Willett, W. C. (2011). "Moderate alcohol consumption during adult life, drinking patterns, and breast cancer risk." JAMA, 306(17), 1884-1890. [JAMA].

- Colorectal Cancer and Alcohol - American Journal of Epidemiology:

- Cho, E., Smith-Warner, S. A., Ritz, J., van den Brandt, P. A., Colditz, G. A., Folsom, A. R., ... & Hunter, D. J. (2004). "Alcohol Intake and Colorectal Cancer: A Pooled Analysis of 8 Cohort Studies." American Journal of Epidemiology, 159(7), 667-676. [American Journal of Epidemiology].

Gut Health and Alcohol:

- Leclercq, S., Matamoros, S., Cani, P. D., Neyrinck, A. M., Jamar, F., Stärkel, P., & de Timary, P. (2014). "Intestinal permeability, gut-bacterial dysbiosis, and behavioral markers of alcohol-dependence severity." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 111(42), E4485-E4493. [PNAS].

Genetic Predispositions and Alcohol Sensitivity:

- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). "Genetics of Alcohol Use Disorder." Accessed August 12, 2024. [NIAAA].

- Hurley, T. D., & Edenberg, H. J. (2012). "Genes encoding enzymes involved in ethanol metabolism." Alcohol Research: Current Reviews, 34(3), 339-344. [Alcohol Research].

Citation: Nutrients and Botanicals to Support Sobriety

Day, E., Bentham, P., Callaghan, R., Kuruvilla, T., George, S. (2013). "Thiamine for prevention and treatment of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome in people who abuse alcohol." Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. [Cochrane Library].

Miller, A. L. (2008). "The methylation, neurotransmitter, and antioxidant connections between folate and depression." Alternative Medicine Review, 13(3), 216-226. [Alternative Medicine Review].

Calder, P. C. (2013). "Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and inflammatory processes: nutrition or pharmacology?" British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 75(3), 645-662. [Journal].

Sontrop, J., & Campbell, M. K. (2006). "Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and depression: A review of the evidence and a methodological critique." Preventive Medicine, 42(1), 4-13. [ScienceDirect].

Boyle, N. B., Lawton, C., & Dye, L. (2017). "The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress—A Systematic Review." Nutrients, 9(5), 429. [MDPI Nutrients].

Amini, N., Fararouei, M., Akbarzadeh, A., Shamsi, F., Rajabzadeh, F., & Ghasemi, F. (2018). "Effect of N-acetylcysteine on liver function in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized clinical trial." European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, 30(1), 53-59. [Wolters Kluwer].

Samuni, Y., Goldstein, S., Dean, O. M., & Berk, M. (2013). "The chemistry and biological activities of N-acetylcysteine." Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - General Subjects, 1830(8), 4117-4129. [ScienceDirect].

Abenavoli, L., Capasso, R., Milic, N., & Capasso, F. (2018). "Milk Thistle in Liver Diseases: Past, Present, Future." Phytotherapy Research, 32(2), 239-255. [Wiley Online Library].

Loguercio, C., & Festi, D. (2011). "Silybin and the liver: From basic research to clinical practice." World Journal of Gastroenterology, 17(18), 2288-2301. [World Journal of Gastroenterology].

Keung, W. M., & Vallee, B. L. (1998). "Kudzu root: An ancient Chinese source of modern antidipsotropic agents." Phytochemistry, 47(4), 499-506. [ScienceDirect].

Lukas, S. E., Penetar, D. M., Berko, J., Vicens, L., Palmer, C., Mallya, G., ... & Lee, D. Y. W. (2005). "An extract of the Chinese herbal root kudzu reduces alcohol drinking by heavy drinkers in a naturalistic setting." Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 29(5), 756-762. [Wiley Online Library].

Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). "A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of Ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults." Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 34(3), 255-262. [Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine].

Singh, N., Bhalla, M., de Jager, P., & Gilca, M. (2011). "An overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda." African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, 8(5 Suppl), 208-213. [AJTCAM].

DISCLAIMER: The health information in this blog are for general education and is not intended to substitute for any medical advice. No medical cure, diagnosis, or treatment is provided.

This website contains affiliate links, which means LTL may receive a percentage of any product or service you purchase using the links in the items descriptions, articles or advertisements. You will pay the same price for all products and services, and your purchase helps support our ongoing effort in assisting you. Thanks for your support!

✨ Unlock expert wellness insights! 🌿 Subscribe now for exclusive health tips & natural living secrets! 🌱💪🏾